ROBERT AND CERI RICKMAN FROM BRITON FERRY SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC ANIMAL CRUELTY IN NEATH

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Briton Ferry, Robert Roy Rickman, born around 1972, and his wife Ceri Ann Rickman, born approximately 1985, both residents of Parc Newydd in Briton Ferry with the postcode SA11 2UP, faced justice for their gross neglect and mistreatment of multiple animals. The couple previously lived at 46 Groves Road, Cimla, Neath, where they kept a total of 15 cats and two dogs in conditions described as deplorable and inhumane.

Both Robert and Ceri Rickman admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to the cats and neglecting the basic needs of their two dogs. The case came to light after an RSPCA officer visited their former address in June 2017. During this visit, the officer discovered cats suffering from fleas and malnutrition wandering through the filthy premises. The property was found to be in a state of extreme neglect, with bottles filled with urine and cardboard boxes containing feces scattered across the floors, creating a scene of utter filth and squalor.

The two dogs, a brindle lurcher and a collie-cross, were also living in the same environment, which was described as entirely unsuitable for any living creature. The conditions inside the house were appalling, with piles of rubbish filling the rooms, human and animal waste on the floors, and grime covering nearly every surface. An overwhelming, repellent smell permeated the entire property, highlighting the severity of the neglect.

It was revealed during court proceedings that Robert Rickman, who had previously gone by the name Robert Ford, had a prior conviction dating back to 1998 for causing unnecessary suffering to an animal under the old Protection of Animals Act 1911. This history underscored the seriousness of the current case.

Steve Harrett, representing the Rickmans, explained that both individuals had limitations that contributed to the conditions found in their home. Despite this, the court emphasized the cruelty inflicted upon the animals and the importance of accountability.

RSPCA Inspector Neill Manley, who attended the property, described the scene as one of the worst he had ever encountered. He recounted arriving on one of the hottest days of the year and being shocked by the conditions inside. The inspector detailed how cats roamed the house in a state of neglect, with many suffering from untreated allergic reactions due to flea infestations. The environment was infested with fleas, and the animals' suffering was palpable.

Inspector Manley highlighted the disturbing presence of plastic bottles filled with urine and cardboard boxes filled with feces scattered across the floors. The condition of the animals was described as heartbreaking, with the inspector emphasizing that it was difficult to comprehend how anyone could keep animals in such filthy and squalid surroundings.

Thanks to the intervention of the RSPCA, all animals were taken into care and are now awaiting rehoming, offering them a second chance at happiness. The case serves as a stark reminder of the vital role the RSPCA plays in protecting vulnerable animals and ensuring they receive the care they deserve.

In sentencing, the court imposed a 12-month community order with a requirement for rehabilitation. Both Robert and Ceri Rickman were ordered to pay £300 each towards costs. Additionally, they were banned from keeping any animals for a period of 10 years, with the ban set to expire in January 2028.